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Nestled in the serene land of Jharkhand lies the industrial city of Jamshedpur. Founded in 1919 by the visionary Jamshedji Tata, Jamshedpur has grown into one of India's most prominent steel and manufacturing hubs. Yet, beyond the smokestacks and factories exists a vibrant city with a unique culture and cuisine.
Jamshedpur's streets are lined with aromatic street food stalls dishing out local delicacies. You can find steaming plates of litti chokha, thekua, dhuska or bhaat. You'll also find influences from neighboring Bengali cuisine with posto and machher jhol. The city's sweet tooth craves traditional desserts like til ki chikki, malpua, and laccha semai. Its rich culture can be tasted in every mouthwatering bite.
Try these 6 traditional dishes, while on your next trip to jamshedpur, Jharkhand
Dhuskha with Ghugni
Dhuska with Ghugni is a beloved dish in Jamshedpur, known for its rich, savoury flavours and hearty texture. Dhuska are fried flatbreads made from a batter of rice and lentil flour, providing a crispy yet soft accompaniment to the spicy ghugni curry made with black chickpeas. This dish is a staple in Jharkhandi cuisine and culture. With each bite of the crispy dhuska soaked in fragrant, spicy ghugni, you get a mouthwatering taste of Jamshedpur.
Restaurant recommendation: Singh Dhuska and Bara, Jugsalai, Jamshedpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹100- ₹250 approx
Image credit: Freepik
Rugra
Rugra is a traditional rice dish from the Indian state of Jharkhand that has become beloved for its rich, comforting flavours. This wholesome rice dish is tempered with fragrant spices, sautéed vegetables and is served with spicy tomato chutney. Rugra offers a medley of tastes and aromas that have made it a staple comfort food across Jamshedpur for generations. This hearty, nourishing rice dish encapsulates the diverse culinary heritage of the region.
Restaurant recommendation: Timeout pure veg restaurant, Contractor area,
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200- ₹400 approx
Image credit: Freepik
Thekua
Thekua is a delightful, sweet snack that hails from Jamshedpur. This crispy, flaky treat is made with whole wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, lending it a delightful sweet-savoury flavour. No celebration is complete without a batch of freshly made thekua. It is cherished as a festive treat and is lovingly prepared in homes across the state. Even today, thekua remains a quintessential part of Jamshedpur's food culture and holds a special place in the hearts of its people.
Restaurant recommendation: Taste of Town, Beside PC Jewellers, Jamshedpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200- ₹350 approx
Chilka Roti
Chilka Roti, a delicacy from the land of Jamshedpur, offers a burst of flavours that dance on the palate. This simple yet iconic flatbread is served with ghee, crunchy sev, tart onions, cooling cilantro, and piquant green chilies. With each bite, there is a delightful interplay of textures and tastes. This symphony of flavours and humble ingredients is what makes Chilka Roti such an iconic staple that captures the hearty, comforting spirit of Jharkhandi cuisine.
Image credit: Freepik
Restaurant recommendation: The Madras Hotel, Bistupur, Jamshedpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹100- ₹250 approx
Handia
The handia dish of Jamshedpur is famous for its rich and delicious flavours. It originated in the city of Jamshedpur in eastern India and has become a beloved local specialty. Handia is a thick, creamy curry made with yoghurt, spices, and meat or vegetables. What makes it stand out is the use of handi, a special type of earthen pot that gives the dish its name. For those with a taste for authentic Indian cuisine, handia is a must-try dish that showcases the diverse flavours of the region.
Restaurant recommendation: Jaiswal Handi Mutton Kebab, Dimna, Mango, Jamshedpur
Type: Non-Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200- ₹350 approx
Aloo Chokha
Aloo chokha is extremely popular in the city of Jamshedpur. It is made with boiled potatoes that are mashed and mixed with raw mustard oil, salt, chopped onion, green chili, and coriander leaves. The dish has a tangy, spicy and refreshing taste. Street food vendors in Jamshedpur serve piping hot aloo chokha early mornings paired with puffed rice. It is the perfect breakfast for factory workers who have to do hard labor. The dish is now intrinsic to the food culture of Jamshedpur.
Image credit: Freepik
Restaurant recommendation: Surendar Kewat Litti Chokha Corner, Sakchi, Jamshedpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹100- ₹200 approx
